A recent survey by the Organic Farming Research Foundation found what we already knew to be true in our community. Young people simply aren't choosing organic produce farming as a career. According to the OFRF survey, the average age of a U.S. organic farmer is 51. And, more than half of our country's organic farmers don't even grow produce!

Since 2002, Prairieland CSA has been in the unique position of helping usher in the next generation of sustainable farmers for our community. In doing so, we are ensuring the availability of pesticide-free produce for decades to come.

With the financial support of PCSA's shareholders, the Moore family of Watseka, has been able to undertake a capitalization program to convert their farming operation entirely to direct sales so that their eldest son, Wes (above), would be able to join them.

Because of the risk involved with this level of capitalization, the Moores could have seen their farm disappear in recent years due to record floods and drought. However, the stable income from the produce shares of the 135+households of PCSA has provided the cushion the farm has needed to survive and thrive. In 2007, Wes Moore was able to achieve his life-long dream and join Moore Family Farm full-time.

Helping young farmers like Wes is key for ensuring sustainably raised produce in our community for decades to come. If keeping sustainable produced food in our community is important to you, please sign up for a share today using the links at left.

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